The Oregon Ducks have earned a reputation as one of college football’s top destinations for outstanding talent. Over the years, its recruitment efforts have produced some of the most dynamic and game-changing athletes in the country.
Oregon Ducks History: Top 10 Oregon Ducks Football Recruits of All Time
From NFL stars to electric playmakers, here’s a closer look at the top 10 recruits in Oregon Ducks history, along with the legacy they’ve created in Eugene.
1. Kayvon Thibodeaux (EDGE)
Thibodeaux was Oregon’s highest-rated recruit ever, a five-star edge rusher from California who was ranked No. 2 overall in the 2019 class (247Sports Composite). Thibodeaux, known for his explosive speed and power off the edge, had an immediate impact as a freshman.
In 2019, he recorded 9 sacks and established himself as a key member of Oregon’s defense. He won All-American accolades and was selected No. 5 overall by the New York Giants in the 2022 NFL Draft.
2. Dakorien Moore (WR)
Moore, a five-star wide receiver from Duncanville, Texas, is one of the Ducks’ most promising prospects. Moore is ranked as the No. 1 wide receiver in the country and a top-5 talent overall for 2025. He has exceptional speed, fluent route running, and big-play ability.
His commitment sent shockwaves throughout the recruiting world, demonstrating Oregon’s national recruiting dominance under Dan Lanning.
3. Justin Flowe (LB)
Flowe was a powerful five-star linebacker from Upland, California, ranked No. 6 nationally. He was known as a “throwback linebacker” because of his ferocity and downhill tackles. Unfortunately, injuries hindered his stay in Eugene, limiting his effectiveness on the field.
He ultimately switched to Arizona, but his commitment was a significant win at the time, representing Oregon’s defensive recruiting surge.
4. Haloti Ngata (DL)
Ngata, a generational defensive tackle, was ranked second overall in the 2002 class. Ngata, at 6’4″ and 340 pounds, dominated offensive lines with his unusual agility and strength.
He was an All-American at Oregon and went on to become a five-time Pro Bowler in the NFL with the Ravens and Lions. In the early 2000s, his presence helped to strengthen Oregon’s defensive identity.
5. Jonathan Stewart (RB)
Stewart, a five-star recruit from Washington, was ranked No. 3 overall and No. 1 among running backs in his class. He lived up to the promise in Eugene, rushing for over 2,800 yards in his career, 1,722 of which came in 2007.
Stewart was taken 13th overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2008 NFL Draft and has had a successful professional career, including a Super Bowl journey.
6. Na’eem Offord (CB)
Offord is a recent five-star commit from Alabama and the nation’s top-ranked cornerback for the 2025 class. Offord, a long, athletic cover athlete with excellent instincts and ball skills, possesses the potential to be a lockdown defender at the college level.
His commitment to Oregon represented another significant recruiting triumph for the Ducks in SEC territory.
7. Noah Sewell (LB)
Noah Sewell, Penei’s younger brother, was a five-star linebacker from Utah. As an aggressive and instinctive player, he began as a true freshman and was a key part of Oregon’s defense for three years. Sewell entered the NFL Draft in 2023 and was selected by the Chicago Bears. He added strength and variety to the linebacker unit.
8. Cameron Colvin (WR)
Colvin was a top-tier wide receiver prospect at De La Salle High School in Concord, California. He was a top-10 national recruit who was known for his route running and physical ability.
Injuries restricted his Oregon career, but when fit, he has shown flashes of excellence. He later made a brief appearance in the NFL.
Also Read: Top 10 Recruits in Georgia Bulldogs History Include Matthew Stafford, A.J. Green
9. De’Anthony Thomas (ATH)
“The Black Mamba” was an exceptional five-star athlete from Crenshaw High in Los Angeles. Though USC was heavily anticipated to snag him, he surprised the recruiting world by choosing Oregon.
Thomas energized the Ducks as a multi-purpose danger, rushing, receiving, and returning kicks with game-breaking speed. He rose to prominence as a fan favorite and one of college football’s most dynamic players.
10. Josh Conerly Jr. (OT)
Conerly, a five-star offensive tackle from Seattle, was the top-rated uncommitted linemen in the 2022 recruiting cycle until committing to Oregon. He was a significant late acquisition who demonstrated promise early in his career. He is known for his flexibility and pass protection and can anchor the Ducks’ offensive line for a long time.
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